VOXL ESC FPV queries

Jetson Nano

Hello!

Thanks for the wonderful product of VOXL ESC. I have few doubts regarding the product,

Even though details have been provided in the docs, few pin-outs details seem to be missing. Could you share across the integration and pinouts for all the connectors and testpoints of MDK-M0138-1-01?
LED Integration and coding: As stated here, link the documentation mentions for external Neopixel LEDs as well. I'm planning to use a Neopixel LED strips. Over here, I have a doubt if we can address more than 1 LEDs? If yes, how can it be done?

Also how do we power the LED array and what pin is used to power?

Payload Connector: Can we connect a external BEC and get the desired power output we need? Since we are planning to power Doodle Labs COMs module from here if requirements are met.
Also, I want to know what type of data is being sent from FC to ESC via UART communication port(J1)?

Alex Kushleyev

@Jetson-Nano , the following link shows location of all the connections and test points that are being utilized: https://docs.modalai.com/voxl-fpv-esc-datasheet/#hardware-overview . If there is a test point that is not documented, it means it is not supported in firmware or only used for production testing. If you have a specific question, please let me know.

The following link describes the Neopixel led support : https://docs.modalai.com/voxl-fpv-esc-datasheet/#neopixel-led-support . A single string with up to 32 LEDs is supported. VAUX regulator is dedicated for this output and can handle 500-600mA. We also have a way to control this output to be 3.3V or 5.0V (3.3V default) but the control feature is disabled at the moment. You can test the Neopixel output while PX4 is not running using voxl-esc tools : https://gitlab.com/voxl-public/voxl-sdk/utilities/voxl-esc/-/blob/master/voxl-esc-tools/voxl-esc-neopixel-test.py (we also have a helper command to use the LED while PX4 is running). https://gitlab.com/voxl-public/voxl-sdk/services/voxl-io-server/-/blob/master/tools/voxl-send-neopixel-cmd.c -- this tool is a command line tool which sends the control data to PX4 and then PX4 forwards it to the ESC. Right now the C example only supports white color, but we will extend it to RGB.

The payload connector just outputs VBATT, so as long as your desired current is within the JST connector spec, you should be ok. (4Amps per manufacturer's spec).

J1 is used for UART communication with FC or the voxl-esc test scripts and the data that is send are the ESC commands (rpm or power) and other commands like Neopixel commands, PWM output.. The ESC also sends back the ESC status.

Let us know if you have any more questions

Alex